Three things to do St. Patrick’s Day in Atlanta with Kids

A walking Irish flag closes out the 132st annual St. Patrick’s Day parade in Atlanta

Forget Valentine’s Day. My kids love St. Patrick’s Day in Atlanta. For starters, they get their very own box of Lucky Charms. Then there’s Lucky, our Leprechaun who visit each year and is inseparable from my youngest until he goes back to Ireland on March 18. Our favorite activity is the St. Patrick’s Day party we attend each year. Although none of us are particularly fond of corn beef, boiled potatoes or soda bread, it’s a must on March 17. There’s always a party on St. Patrick’s Day in Atlanta and here are some family friendly options for you and your little leprechauns to enjoy.

132th St. Patrick’s Day ParadeWhen: Saturday, March 15, 2014Where: Parade Begins at Peachtree in front of the High Museum of Art (Note this is a new route)When: Noon (Arrive by 10 a.m. for best viewing opportunities along the route.)Cost: Free!

More than 80,000 Atlanta residents and visitors are expected to flock to downtown Atlanta for the 132st Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade to celebrate Irish culture in the community. More than 2,000 dancers, musicians and Irish enthusiasts hailing from the Southeast and as far away as Ireland. My favorite in the parade, besides the Irish dancers, are the 501st Stormtroopers in kilts. The parade finale is one of the world’s largest Irish walking flags.

Starting at 2 p.m., families can enjoy music, arts, crafts, face painting*, hair painting, sand art, tattoos and more family fun! At 6:00p.m., they’ll wrap up the family activities to get ready for a FREE St. Patty’s Day concert from 7:00 – 9:30 p.m. featuring The Ruckus in Central Park. *Face painting is $5.00 per person. Proceeds benefit MODA.